...Questions 67 Detainees Crammed into Cell Meant for 10 Persons
Amnesty International Country Director, Isa Sanusi, says it is prejudicial to label the 37 miners who died in Niger State as illegal miners when they are not alive to defend themselves.
The victims died in the custody of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, NSCDC, in Minna after being arrested as suspected illegal gold miners.
A survivor said 17 persons were initially locked in a small room before more detainees were brought in. Despite complaints about overcrowding and intense heat, they were kept inside.
He alleged an unidentified substance, resembling perfume, was sprayed inside the room.
Speaking on Arise News, Sanusi said Amnesty’s investigation showed the cell was built for 10 persons but held 67 persons.
“Between Tuesday, the 15th, and Wednesday, the 16th, Minna was experiencing extremely hot weather. These are serious human rights issues, particularly the decision to detain 67 people in a facility meant to accommodate no more than 10,” he said.
